World Cup overnight: Tonga and Kumuls turn on a classic

After six blowouts to open the World Cup it was left to Mate Ma'a Tonga and the PNG Kumuls to deliver a nail-biter in front of 10,409 fans at Totally Wicked Stadium in St Helens.

Long-range tries, big hits and a miraculous Tongan match-winner had the crowd on the edge of their seats, with Kristian Woolf's team eventually prevailing 24-18.

With no golden point in the pool games it seemed the match was destined for a draw before Kaeon Koloamatangi finished off an 'off the cuff' Tongan special with three minutes to go.

Among a host of stars, PNG hooker Edwin Ipape was named player of the match, but there would have been no argument had Tongan fullback Tolutau Koula or halfback Tui Lolohea been handed the gong.

In other news, Lebanon playmaker Adam Doueihi has failed in his bid to have a Grade A foul and abusive language to a match official charge overturned at the judiciary and his one-game ban stands.

The main takeaways

• Former Bulldog Rhyse Martin is an absolute freak with the boot, having landed his last 41 shots at goal in a row - equalling the world record held by Liam Finn and Jamie Ellis. Now plying his trade with Leeds Rhinos, Martin levelled the scores from touch late in the game and has not missed a goal since July.
• The Kumuls have what it takes to make some noise in the knockout stages should they get the job done against Wales and Cook Islands and finish second in Pool D.
• Tolutau Koula is a sight to behold in full cry and Manly fans are in for a real treat watching him strut his stuff during the next two seasons.

Star performers

Leigh Centurions hooker Edwin Ipape is coming off a stunning season which saw him named the Championship Player of the Year in September. The livewire 23-year-old was a constant threat out of dummy half and his power running made him a handful for the Tongan defence as he accumulated 193 running metres. Cult hero Justin Olam was also strong for PNG while Alex Johnston was safe as a bank at fullback. The Tongans would have been wrapped with youngsters Tolutau Koula (240 run metres) and Isaiya Katoa while skipper Siosiua Taukeiaho and powerhouse Rabbitoh Kaeon Koloamatangi stood tall to snatch victory from the jaws of a draw.

What the result means

Tonga were given a scare but the win ensures they will finish on top of Pool D,  setting up a potential quarter-final against Samoa, who look likely to finish second in Pool A. Warrington's Haliwell Jones Stadium would be rocking and rolling on Novemeber 6 should that mouth-watering match-up eventuate.

Recap

• Match report: Tonga leave it late to down PNG in thriller
• Key injuries: Nil.